At Laughing Dragon Kung Fu we offer instruction in the Yang family style of Tai Chi Chuan (or taijiquan). The slow and graceful movements of Yang style Tai Chi develop strength and balance in both body and mind.

After a brief loosening up, students begin each 75 minute class with Taoist standing post meditation (zhan zhuang) followed by a series of warm-ups known as The Eight Pieces of Brocade (baduanjin). From there we move into the main body of the class, which includes tai chi basics, form work and pushing hands exercises. Students are worked with individually during this time in order to focus on each student’s particular needs and abilities. The first form taught at Laughing Dragon is the Yang style 24 Step form. This sequence of movements will introduce students to the fundamental principles of Tai Chi while preparing them for more advanced work to come. Our progressive curriculum includes the use of traditional Tai Chi weapons such as staff and sword, as well as longer and more intricate hand forms such as the Yang style 108 movement form. Classes close with qigong exercises (intrinsic energy work, pronounced chee gung) and a cool down designed to amplify the benefits of practice and enhance the body’s qi flow.

Tai Chi Chuan is a rich and varied art which can be practiced for its own sake or as part of a holistic approach to health and fitness. Tai Chi can enhance the performance of athletes; improve the skills of Kung Fu students; aid in rehabilitating from an injury; maintain balance and mobility as practitioners age; and alleviate stress and tension. While the benefits are many, there is only one prerequisite: a willingness to learn.